Description
This Mediterranean Chicken recipe is a flavorful, hearty dish made easy with a slow cooker. Tender chicken thighs are simmered with vibrant bell peppers, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, bringing the bright, savory tastes of the Mediterranean right to your table. Finished with fresh parsley and crumbled feta, it’s perfect served over rice, couscous, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Vegetables
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Tomatoes and Olives
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with juice
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 tablespoons capers (optional)
Herbs and Spices
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Liquids and Garnish
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Crumbled feta cheese for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and brown the chicken thighs lightly for 2–3 minutes on each side. This step enhances the flavor and seals in juices. Then transfer the chicken to the slow cooker.
- Add Vegetables and Seasonings: Add the sliced bell peppers, red onion, minced garlic, diced tomatoes with juice, sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, oregano, basil, paprika, crushed red pepper flakes if using, salt, pepper, and chicken broth to the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly around the chicken.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through.
- Finish and Garnish: Stir in capers and fresh parsley just before serving to brighten the flavors. Top the dish with crumbled feta cheese for an authentic Mediterranean touch.
- Serve: Serve the Mediterranean chicken hot with rice, couscous, or warm pita bread to soak up the delicious juices. For a low-carb alternative, try it over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Notes
- For a low-carb option, serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
- Chicken breasts can be used as a substitute, but chicken thighs provide more flavor and tenderness.
- This dish freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep.
